Tucked away on the east coast of Crete, Elounda is a pretty fishing village that is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday by the sea.
You'll love Elounda if you're looking for a traditional Greek resort that isn't too crowded or commercialized. However, that does not mean that there is nothing to do here. If you areplanning a trip to greecePlease consider adding this hidden gem to your itinerary.
Spend your days relaxing on the beach or bathing in crystal clear waters. Explore pretty streets and admire the stunning scenery. The coastal paths are perfect for walking and you can explore the area and get to know this part of Crete a little better.
I loved the authentic Greek atmosphere of Elounda, the friendliness of the locals we met and the general relaxed atmosphere of the village. Also, the view over the bay is spectacular. I could have spent the whole week looking at the sea, this is one of the most beautiful places.relaxing places to visit in greece.
In this Elounda Crete travel guide, I list the best things to do, where to eat, where to stay, the best beaches and how to get around.
Pair of chickens:
- Things to do in Elunda
- Best day trips from Elounda
- Where to stay in Elunda
- Where to eat in Elunda
- The best beaches in Elunda
- How to get to Elunda
- How to get around Elunda
Top things to do in Elounda Crete
We stayed at Elounda for 7 nights, and although it's a low-key place, we found plenty of things to do. We like to get out and explore, but if you like to spend a lot of time at the beach, you can stay longer.
Elounda is the perfect base for leisurely walks, and no matter where you are in the village, you are guaranteed a beautiful view of the bay. If you like water, you will be amazed by the crystal clear sea here on the east coast of Crete.
Here are some of the best things to do in Elounda, Crete:
1. Explore the port
Probably the first thing you want to do when you arrive in Elounda is to walk around the center of the city. Here you will find the quaint harbor with everything from traditional fishing boats to rowing boats.
Walk east along the harbor and you'll pass some of Elounda's popular tavernas before reaching the main beach. Heading south along the harbor, you'll be rewarded with some of the city's most unique restaurants overlooking the bay.
2. Go to the sunken city of Olous
Continue south of the complex and you will come to the sunken city of Olous. Olous was an ancient Greek city from the Minoan period. Don't expect obvious ruins at the bottom of the sea, though a closer look reveals some of the old walls.
Some reports suggest that Olous sank due to volcanic activity, others say that it is more likely that it slowly sank over many years.
Today, for tourists, it is an interesting place for a coastal walk away from the main tourist center. If you want to find the ruins under the water, you canJoin this fun snorkeling tour.
3. Take a boat trip to Spinalonga
One of the highlights of our trip to Crete was a visit to Spinalonga. The island is a former leper colony. Those affected on Crete (and sometimes on the mainlandGreece) were forcibly relocated to the island to prevent the spread of the disease.
Although well known locally, Spinalonga became famous for the publication of Victoria Hislop's novel.The island. The book tells the story of the Fielding family involved in the drama of leprosy and the island of Spinalonga.
In fact, it's a great read; so if you're looking for a holiday read while in Crete, I highly recommend it. The Spinalonga leper colony closed in 1957, just a few years after a cure for the terrible disease was discovered.
How to get to the island of Spinalonga?
For a long time, the Greek authorities preferred to forget about Spinalonga, but that changed when tourists, inspired by Hislop's novel, began asking to visit it.
Now you can visit Spinalonga yourself by taking a boat from the main island.this boat tripIt is highly valued and is a great option to enjoy the island.
If you prefer to go alone, it costs about 10 euros per person or 5 euros for children. It is a pleasant journey and you will see more of the coast as you cross it.
For a shorter journey to the island, head to the nearby town of Plaka. There is plenty of free parking in Plaka near the boat docks, making it an easy option if you have a car.
The boats leave from two piers at regular intervals. So if you missed the first one, walk a little further along the port and try the other one.
It's a short 10-minute ride from Plaka and costs 8 euros per person. The boats from both places leave around 10:00 am. m. and they run at regular intervals throughout the day until around 4:00 p.m. m. at 4:40 p.m. m.
Exploring the island of Spinalonga
Arriving on the island of Spinalonga, you need to buy an entrance ticket for 8 euros at the small kiosk. Walk through the arch and you will enter a world of narrow streets and colorful houses.
In some of them you will find panels with information about their former residents. It's fascinating and quite sad, especially if you've read Hislop's book.
Many of the buildings have already been restored, but more work is underway. Leaving the main settlement, go around the bottom of the hill and if you look up, you will see that the ruins stretch all the way to the top.
While most visitors seem to follow the main trail below, the upper levels are accessible if you don't mind climbing some rocky inclines and steps.
I would recommend making the trip for fabulous views across the bay to Plaka and Elounda. You will also get a bird's eye view of the Spinalonga settlement.
If you are staying in Agios Nikolaos or want to combine your trip to Spinalonga with swimming and lunch, thenA half day tour is offered.in the zone. Expect to pay around €25-30 for a half-day cruise with stops to swim and snorkel, including lunch.
4. Visit the windmills
If you like to walk, head south from the port of Elounda and you will come to the salt flats on the right hand side. Look closely at the water and you will see stone squares. People sometimes mistake it for the submerged ruins of Oleus, but they are actually salt flats.
Salt water accumulates in the squares and when the water evaporates, the salt remains at the bottom. Workers balance on the low stone walls to scrape salt from the bottom of the plazas. A sophisticated system.
Go straight ahead and cross the small stone bridge and you will come to the Kolokytha peninsula. When you cross the bridge you will see the first windmill.
Due to the shape of the land, the peninsula forms a breakwater which makes Elounda Bay so calm. Here are three stone windmills that were built to harness the wind in this part of the peninsula.
This is a beautiful area to walk. If you want to go further afield, there are a number of hiking trails that run up and down the hill to some deserted beaches.
Best Day Trips from Elounda Village
These are some of the day trips that I recommend from Elounda.
Visit nearby Plaka
Plaka is a quaint little town about 5 km north of Elounda and is well worth a trip to see. If you have a car the coastal road is an easy drive and there is plenty of parking in Plaka just off the main road.
For those without transportation, there is a small tourist train that runs several times a day and a public bus that runs only a few times a day.
There are many restaurants to choose from along the harbor and the fish restaurants in Plaka are particularly popular. Plaka is also a good starting point for visiting the island of Spinalonga, as the boat trip from here takes only 10 minutes.
Enjoy the day and see the beautiful beaches around Plaka and visit the souvenir shops around the port.
Despite its growing popularity, Plaka still feels traditionally Greek. Plaka is a tourist destination, but it is much smaller and quieter than Elounda. Although it is busiest in July when they organize a music festival in honor of a local musician, Mikalis Papadakis.
Ride the little blue train
The Little Blue Train not only offers a fun transportation option between Elounda and Plaka, but also sightseeing tours.
You can take a four-hour drive from Elounda to the Cretan countryside. You will see some traditional villages and there are plenty of opportunities to take some fabulous photos high up in the hills.
The train makes several stops where you can stroll through picturesque villages, sample some of the local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and explore interesting churches.
If you don't have a car, it's a fabulous way to get out and see more of the stunning Cretan countryside.
TripIt costs 18 euros per person. The train leaves Elounda at 12:00 and returns at 18:00. Lunch is not included, but the train stops at a local tavern where you can buy food and drink.
Explore Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is about 10 km south of Elounda and is a good option if you are looking for somewhere a bit livelier for a day trip.
Here you will find a bustling seaside town with many shops, restaurants and bars. The port area is especially nice to walk around and then you will arrive at the marina.
You can reach Agios Nikolaos in just a few minutes by car and we had no problem finding street parking. There is also a car park near the main port area.
If you don't feel like driving, the little blue train goes through there too, or it's a short taxi ride away. We also saw some people walking.
Visit the Palace of Knossos
No visit to Crete would be complete without visiting the famous Minoan ruins of Knossos. Known as the site of the mythical labyrinth, the Palace of Knossos is located south of Heraklion.
Here you will find extensive archaeological excavations of the palace dating back to around 2 AD. However, this site has existed since the Neolithic period, around 7000-9000 BC. BC, settlements, so it is an exceptionally interesting place.
You really need a car to get here from Elounda and I advise getting there early as (free) parking is limited and gets very crowded.
The place opens at 8 am and stays open until 8 pm in the summer. You will enjoy it more if you arrive early or late, since the ruins are uncovered and therefore fully exposed to the sun.
Get your skip-the-line ticket and guided tour here. I definitely recommend a guide, otherwise you don't really know what you're looking at. A guide brings Knossos to life!
Wear suitable shoes for walking and climbing uneven steps, and take water with you. Expect at least 2 hours of browsing time, more if you're particularly intrigued by the story.
Where to stay in Elounda Crete
If you want to walk to stunning beaches, fabulous tavernas, restaurants and bars, choose to stay at an Elounda hotel in the main area of ​​the village. Elounda itself is not very big and you can easily walk to everything if you stay close to the main beach or port.
For great views of the bay I would recommend staying on top of the hill overlooking the city. If you are looking for something special, another option for those looking to get away from it all is to stay at one of the luxury hotels in Elounda on the way to Plaka.
adrakos apartments
We stayed here for 7 nights and it is a beautiful family run apartment complex. Ideal for couples as it is an adults-only facility. Each room has a small kitchenette, but the real draw is the bay-view balcony or patio. The view is absolutely spectacular.
You will need a car if you stay here as it is a bit outside of the main Elounda complex but there is free parking.
Adrakos has a popular restaurant and bar on site and they also have a great pool so you don't have to drive every day if you don't feel like it.Click herefor the latest prices and reviews.
studio with view
If you are looking for an apartment to rent with incredible views of the sea and the island of Spinalonga. You also have access to water, check out this apartment in Plaka.
The studio has a balcony with great views, a mini fridge, a coffee maker and a TV. A short walk to Plaka will take you to many authentic taverns. Know moreHere.
Elounda Blu Sinn
As part of the Sentido Hotels group, Sentido Elounda Blu is the right choice for you if you are looking for pure luxury and relaxation. It is situated on the road between Elounda and Plaka, overlooking the magnificent bay and the island of Spinalonga.
Treat yourself by reserving a Junior Suite with a private pool. At Elounda Blu you can enjoy a private beach with water sports facilities or take advantage of some of the many activities the hotel offers, such as wine tasting, cooking classes and aerobics.
A garden view room in September starts at $155 per night with half board, or book all-inclusive from $215 per night. My sister stayed here for 10 nights and is absolutely thrilled. When it comes to hotels in Elounda, this is a great option.
Elounda Krini Hotel
If you are looking for a hotel that is only a few hundred meters from Elounda beach and has great reviews, consider the Elounda Krini Hotel.
All rooms have a balcony and you can choose to face either the mountains or the landscaped pool area. The rooms are fresh and clean, with tiled floors and whitewashed walls. Expect to pay around $80 a night.Click hereLearn more.
emilia apartments
An excellent cheap option and still close to everything is Emilia Apartments. The apartments are located in the heart of Elounda, just 300 meters from Elounda beach.
The rooms are modern with a light and fresh decoration. Each room has a kitchenette with dining area and a patio or balcony. Rooms start at $45 a night.Click hereLearn more.
To find more hotels and apartments in Elounda,Click here.
where can a man in elounda crete essen
Although Elounda is a small town, you will still find a wide variety of restaurants. Whether you're looking for traditional Greek mezze, fabulous seafood or just a great steak, you'll find a restaurant or cafe in Elounda to satisfy.
Most of the restaurants have menus outside the restaurant, so wander around the streets near the port and the city center and see what suits you best. Don't forget to walk along the harbor to the windmills as there are fantastic seafood restaurants overlooking the bay.
Here are some of my favourites.
house at ellie's
Update, sadly this place is closed.
You will find Elli's Place on the main beach road in Elounda. It is a casual cafe style restaurant that mainly serves breakfast and lunch. It is famous for its chicken gyros and very popular with beachgoers as it is just a short walk from the main beach.
In addition to traditional Greek dishes like gyros and moussaka, Elli's also serves everything from sandwiches and ice cream to a full English breakfast.Find Elli's place on Google Maps
Canal
Kanali restaurant has a unique location on the other side of the peninsula, close to the sunken city of Olous and the windmills. If you are looking for something special with a calm atmosphere and good food, this is the place for you.
Kanali specializes in seafood, and the lobster pasta gets rave reviews. However, they also have several vegetarian dishes and a selection of gluten-free options.
Kanali is open for lunch and dinner. You can call +30 2841 042075 to verify specific hours of operation and make reservations.Here you can find Kanali Restaurant on Google Maps.
Okeanis
Okeanis is just behind Elounda beach. If you ask the locals where to eat in Elounda, they will send you there. It's casual dining at its best, and you'll enjoy first-class service and delicious food.
Okeanis specializes in local Greek and Mediterranean dishes and offers quite an extensive menu. Don't miss the traditional Greek salad. It is wonderful.
You can reach Okeanis at +30 2841 044404. It is open for lunch from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm and for dinner from 6 pm to 11 pm.Here you can find Okeanis on Google Maps.
cyprus tavern
This was one of our favorites while staying in Elounda village. Located right in the center of Elounda overlooking the beach, Cypriana offers a wide variety of breakfasts, omelettes, pastas, pizzas and sandwiches.
However, you should definitely try some of their Greek Cypriot dishes: chicken gyros, moussaka, or souvlaki. They offer good value for money, casual dining at its best and are renowned for their friendly service.
It seems they are open when you are hungry, from 9am to midnight. You can reach them at +30 2841 041752, but just drop by, no reservations required.Here you can find Cipriana on Google Maps.
The best beaches in Elunda
If you are a beach lover then you have come to the right place. The east coast of Crete offers miles of sandy and pebble beaches.Beaches, many of them classified as Blue Flag.
While some of the larger beaches are popular, you can also find small stretches of nearly uninhabited coastline. No matter where you choose, you can bathe in warm, crystal clear waters while enjoying absolutely spectacular views.
Elounda Beach
Right in the center of the resort is the Blue Flag awarded Elounda beach. Here you can spend the day relaxing under a thatched umbrella or floating in the blue waters.
If you're feeling a little more energetic, sign up for some of the water sports activities. There is a playground for children and organized activities are offered in summer.
While many of the smaller beaches in this area are pebble, Elounda Beach is beautiful and sandy, making it a great option if you're staying nearby.
Here you can find Elounda beach on Google Maps.
Beaches on the way to Plaka
Drive or walk from Elounda towards Plaka and you will pass several small pebble beaches. These quiet coves offer a fabulous alternative to the crowded beaches in the center. Often, you will have the bay to yourself.
The water is clear and warm and the views from Spinalonga are stunning. If you come by car, there are small parking lots at intervals along the beach road.
Take your water shoes though, there is no sand here and the rocks are small and uncomfortable underfoot. However, it's worth it for the luxury of sunbathing and swimming in your own stretch of bay.
Playa de Kolokitha
We found this amazing little beach while walking around the Elounda peninsula. After visiting the windmills, we move on. First, go up the small road/path.
Somewhere near the church, this path ends, but you can see the other side from here, so keep walking on that path.
Apart from Kolokitha beach, there are also several smaller coves nearby. While the locals know where to find them, you won't find many tourists here. It's an easy hike, partly uphill, but not strenuous if you're reasonably fit.
However, being able to stretch out on the sand and swim in the crystal clear water at the end of the hike is reward enough. It's a mix of pebbles and sand here, but enough sand to keep your feet comfortable.
Here you can find Kolokitha beach on Google Maps.
How to get to Elunda
By plane
You have several options to get to Elounda. If you want to fly to Crete, the most convenient airport is Heraklion, located on the north coast of the island.
There is another airport on the island, near Chania to the west, but Heraklion is Crete's main airport and definitely the easiest to reach from Elounda.
You will find a wide range of airlines flying into Heraklion Airport. British Airways and Easyjet have regular daily non-stop flights fromUnited Kingdomand TUI offers charter flights.
In addition, several airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France and Swiss Airlines, offer regular flights from mainland Europe.
of ship
Of course, Crete is an island and can be reached by boat. Ferries leave daily from the port of Piraeus, near Athens. In summer there can be up to 4 trips per day. Choose to travel from Piraeus to Heraklion port during the day or overnight.
The journey takes between 5 and 8 hours and there is nothing like waking up in the morning to a new port of call.
If you're traveling overnight, you'll probably want a cabin to relax in, but reclining seats are also available. During the day, you can enjoy the fresh sea air on the deck or relax in one of the bars or lounges. Search ferry routes, timetables and prices to EloundaHere.
How to get to Elounda from the airport/port
Arriving in Heraklion, you need to head east to Elounda. The easiest way is to rent a car and drive it yourself. A good tip is to rent a car from one of the local companies in Elounda.
They will pick you up at the airport with your rental car. In general, online reviews are much better for these companies. If you prefer, the usual European car rental companies are also based at Heraklion Airport.
It is about an hour's drive to Elounda, so if you prefer not to drive, you can take a taxi. At the stop in front of the arrivals hall, you can take an airport taxi for a fixed price of 75 euros.
Another alternative is the bus. You can book through the Easyjet website even if you don't fly with them. At 25 euros per person, it is a cheaper alternative if you are only 1 or 2 people in your group.
It is also possible to reach Elounda by public bus, but it is not easy. Unfortunately, there is no direct bus, so you have to take the bus to Agios Nikolaus first. This takes about 75 minutes.
From Agios Nikolaus it is another 30 minutes by bus to Elounda. You should keep in mind that the bus service from Agios Nikolaus is not that regular, so check them out.Timebefore leaving.
You will be traveling for more than 3 hours, so this is not an option I would recommend. However, if the budget is tight, for 9 euros it is a very cheap alternative.
How to get around Elunda
I would recommend hiring a car if you are staying in Elounda. This makes getting around much easier. However, if you're just planning a relaxing week at the resort and the beach, you can walk to everything.
You don't really have to leave the village of Elounda, but it would be a shame not to get out and see a bit more of eastern Crete.
Of course there is always the option of renting a car for the day. In the center of Elounda you will find at least a few car rental companies that can help you.
Now you know what to do in Elounda
The village of Elounda is the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing holiday. However, if you're looking for something more active, you'll also find plenty of options.
Spend time exploring this traditional Greek village, sample local food, and relax with a beer or glass of local raki. Here you will rediscover a slower pace of life and you will definitely regret it if you have to leave.
For more information on how to travel in Crete, see ourComplete travel guide for Crete, and aboveWhat to do in CreteYou do not want to miss it!
Images in this post are courtesy ofShutterstock.com.
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FAQs
Is Elounda Crete worth visiting? ›
Elounda Bay is known for its luxurious resorts frequented by the rich and famous (unfortunately we just missed that cut) but there is plenty to see and do for the average joe as well. Nice beaches, fabulous views, hiking, history and, obviously, a long list of popular seafood restaurants.
Which celebrities are in Elounda? ›Among the celebrities who have stayed in the past in Elounda include: Andreas Papandreou, French President Francois Mitterrand, Muammar Gaddafi, the Libyan leader, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mariah Carey, Montserrat Kampagie, Andrea Bocelli, Bon Jovi, U2, Pedro Almodovar, Riana, Lady Gaga and many others.
What is Elounda known for? ›Elounda is located 10km north of Agios Nikolaos, near the northwest side of the Bay of Mirabello. It is famous for its expensive and luxurious hotels that host celebrities from all over the world. Apart from its glamorous character, Elounda has to offer visitors some of the most beautiful landscapes in Crete.
How far is Elounda from Crete? ›The distance between Crete and Elounda is 76 km. The road distance is 67.5 km.
Which is nicest town in Crete? ›Chania Town is probably the most beautiful town in Crete. The Old Town of Chania, with the evident Medieval style, is a wonderful place to walk around, lined up with elegant Venetian mansions.
Which is the prettiest part of Crete? ›Arguably the prettiest village in the whole of Crete is Margarites. Located 27 kilometres east of Rethymnon, underneath of Mount Psiloritis, the village is best known as being the pottery center of Crete. Traditional Creten village of Margarites, famous for its handmade ceramics.
Does Elounda have nightlife? ›The nightlife in Elounda is quiet and relaxed compared to other Greek resorts, centred around the cafe terraces and cocktail bars. Along the seafront there are some particularly excellent restaurants serving classy seafood.
Why stay in Elounda? ›Elounda is best known for its dramatic landscape and spectacular beaches. Although most visitors prefer to spend their day relaxing on a sunbed, the nearby area is full of amazing sights. For example, you can day trip to the picturesque Kolokitha beach or take a boat to the famous Spinalonga Island.
Does Elounda have a beach? ›Elounda Beach is one of the prettiest, cleanest beaches in Crete. Elounda is a well protected bay, sitting behind the Kolokytha Peninsula and Spinalonga Island, 10 km from Agios Nikolaos on the north coast of eastern Crete. Protected by Cape Agios Ioannis and Kalydon Island, the waters are tranquil and calm.
Is Elounda in Crete nice? ›Hidden away on the eastern coast of Crete, Elounda is a pretty fishing village which is the perfect destination for a relaxing seaside getaway. You'll love Elounda if you're looking for a traditional Greek resort which isn't too crowded or commercialized.
What is the temperature in Elounda in September? ›
Average daily temperatures
Days are usually hot with balmy evenings, so visitors should pack light and cool clothing. The average daily maximum is 30 C and the average daily minimum is 20 C.
The weather in Elounda in September produces an average of just 10mm of rain across just two rain-affected days. Temperatures reach an amazing daytime average high of 27°C and only drop to around 19°C on rare colder days. Sunbathers will love the 12 hours of sunshine in Elounda in September.
How many days in Crete is enough? ›So, the short answer is that you need at least five days in Crete to see a good bulk of the island. And if you have set your eyes on visiting every major attraction, think of two weeks at least. Let alone if you want to see all the island can offer.
Is Crete a cheap island? ›1. Crete – The best Greek island for low prices. Crete is Greece's largest island. It's also one of the most beautiful, diverse and cheapest islands in Greece.
Do you need a car to explore Crete? ›Traveling without a car in Crete is certainly a magnificent option, as you won't have to worry about parking or where to stay. Car rental in Crete will also allow you to get to places that you can't reach by foot, such as the northern coast and the famous Akrotiri Lighthouse.
What is Elounda like in Crete? ›Elounda Village, once a picturesque fishing village in lovely Mirabello Bay and nowadays is an ideal destination for people who want a seaside holiday in a place which is neither too busy nor too isolated, having a spectacular coastline, shaded beaches, crystal clear seas, archeological interest.
Where do Americans live in Crete? ›The area known as Apokoronas, situated between the major towns of Chania and Rethymnon, is home to the highest density of expats on the island. Even the little villages have a smattering of expats, and the large town of Chania is just half an hour away by car.
Is Crete better than Santorini? ›Crete has better beaches but they're spread out and it takes a fair bit of effort to see the best beaches. Santorini is small and it's easy to get around to all the popular beaches. Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon.
What is the best month to go to Crete? ›Summer is the most popular time to visit Crete. The season starts in June and lasts till the end of September. The average temperatures are at around 27.5 °C to 29.5 °C and there are between 9 to 12 hours of sunshine that the island receives daily.
Where do celebrities go in Crete? ›Elounda is a beautiful simple fishing village in the North of Crete. Over the years it's attracted the worlds rich and famous with the likes of Lady Gaga, Leonardo DiCaprio and the Saudi Royal Family choosing to holiday here.
Do you need a car in Elounda? ›
Hiring a car in Elounda is the best way to explore this bustling beach town, especially when heading from Agios Nikolaos. The cosmopolitan resort isn't the only thing to be excited about when visiting this part of the region, as there are also many interesting villages and settlements surrounding the area.
What is the nearest airport to Elounda Crete? ›The closest airport to Elounda is Heraklion airport (62km).
Is it always windy in Elounda? ›Wind in Elounda is usually stronger than many places. The windiest month is February, followed by January and July.
What is the weather like in Elounda in July? ›Elounda is bathed in sunshine in July, with an average of 14 hours each day. The sun rises just after 6am and finally disappears at around 8.30pm. The average daytime high temperature is 29°C and this only drops to an average low of 21°C on rare cooler days.
Is Elounda lively? ›At A Glance
With holidays to Elounda you get a lively harbour with authentic Greek tavernas and cheery waterfront pubs. You're also close to Spinalonga Island, Crete's most-visited sight.
Crete is Greece's largest island—just driving from one end to the other makes for a five-hour journey, and there's much to do and see in between. If you want to experience all Crete has to offer, plan to spend a full week exploring its monasteries, olive groves, towns, and coast.
What is the weather like in Elounda in June? ›Elounda enjoys the warm weather and clear blue skies over June with temperatures soaring to 27°C during the daytime. Lows are around 18°C, which is still mild and enjoyable for an evening stroll along the harbour. The sun shines for 14 hours per day with an average monthly rainfall of just 1mm.
What is Elounda like in October? ›Elounda weather October
Temperatures are warm without being too hot, though you may have to work around the rain at times. The average temperature in Elounda is 19°C in October, rising to a high of 22°C in the hottest part of the day.
For the journey from Crete Heraklion airport to Elounda, you have two transfer options, bus or taxi. Taking a Heraklion airport taxi is the easiest and most direct option. The journey will take 60 minutes, and the price is fixed at 75€. Taking the public bus is the cheaper option at 9€ for the entire trip.
Which side of Crete is nicer? ›The best place to stay in Crete is Chania area or western Crete that actually has the best beaches of the island and some of the best hotels along with the beautiful Chania town with its elegant restaurants, the picturesque Old Town of Chania, and the incredible Samaria Gorge (which you should hike).
Are people in Crete friendly? ›
Cretans are the friendliest folks in the country – and that's saying something. Many travellers soon become regular visitors to this wonderful island and many of them develop long-lasting friendships with the locals.
Why is Crete so special? ›The largest island in Greece, Crete is a diverse and vibrant land packed with ancient ruins, buzzing cities and breathtaking beaches. Many people come here for the sun, sea and sand yet the best things to do in Crete include much more than the standard package vacation.
Is Elounda windy in September? ›We visit Agios /Elounda area most months during the summer and the worst /best (depending in your point of view) month for the Meltemi wind is end July/August when the wind does tend to be the strongest.....it does to start reducing in September...
Which is the hottest Greek island in late September? ›- Kos. Average temperature in September: 28ºC. ...
- Crete. Average temperature in September: 27ºC. ...
- Cyprus. Average temperature in September: 31ºC. ...
- Corfu. Average temperature in September: 27ºC. ...
- Samos. Average temperature in September: 29ºC. ...
- Santorini. Average temperature in September: 25ºC. ...
- Halkidiki.
“Elounda is open April - October. The best time to visit Crete is between May - September, though bear in mind that July-August can be hot and crowded.
Is Crete humid in September? ›What level of humidity is to expect in September in Crete? Humidity in Crete in September is 61 %.
How hot is Crete end of September? ›Crete has an average temperature of 24 degrees in September, with highs of 27 degrees. It can reach lows of 19 degrees, usually on an evening.
Where is hottest in Spain in September? ›Head to the north and west coasts of Mallorca for temperatures of 27ºC and eights hours of daily sunshine. Palma, the historic capital, is worth a few days of exploring. Ibiza will be calming down after the frenzy of high summer and you can once again enjoy the pretty coves and mountain villages in peace.
Is driving in Crete easy? ›Is it difficult to drive in Crete? You sometimes read online that driving in Crete is not easy. Well, first of all, remember that only the few who has issues write about their experience and all the people who had no issues don' take the time to share their 'I had no issues' trip. I think it is not difficult.
Is eating out in Crete expensive? ›Eating out in Crete isn't too expensive, but it will depend on what exactly you're getting. If you eat at local places rather than touristy establishments, the prices will be much lower and more affordable. However, if you dine in high-quality restaurants in popular towns, you may have to spend more.
Is Crete an expensive island? ›
Cost of Living in Crete
As in the mainland, the cost of living is often about 50% of what you'd expect to spend in the U.S. You can expect housing prices in the big cities of Heraklion, Chania, and Rethymno to be more expensive than in the surrounding towns.
| Bottled Water 0,5 L | 0,20 | 1,49 |
|---|---|---|
| 0,50 - 1,50 | ||
| Bacardi 0,7L | 11,75 | 1,47 |
| Beer HEINEKEN 0,33 L | 0,83 | 2,75 - 3,96 |
| Beer MYTHOS 0,5 L bottle | 0,86 | 2,19 - 5,25 |
Santorini is a destination visited mainly by international tourists, not by local Greeks people. This means that prices are higher in Santorini than they are in Crete. In short, Santorini is not a budget destination.
What island was Mamma Mia filmed on? ›Millions of people worldwide loved the 2008 blockbuster movie, 'Mamma Mia'. Many of the scenes of the popular movie were shot on the Greek Islands of Skopelos and Skiathos under the pretence that the story was set on a totally fictional island called Kalokairi.
Is it worth renting a car in Crete? ›Our last trip to Crete was 10 days and it didn't feel like enough. Nevertheless, we were blown away by how many places we were able to experience by having a Crete rental car. If you're the adventurous type and ready to see it all, renting a car on Crete is a no-brainer!
Do people use Uber in Crete? ›With no Uber in Crete or other ride-sharing services available on the island (like Lyft or Beat) travelers are often forced to rely on public taxis, buses, or car rentals to get around.
What is the highway speed limit in Crete? ›The speed limits in Crete are quite tame and drivers should adhere to them to avoid any safety or legal issues. In built-up areas, the speed limit is 50 km per hour (30 mph) and 90 km per hour (56 mph) on the highway. Speed limits in Crete are: 50 km per hour (30mph) for built-up areas like cities and villages.
Is Elounda a party place? ›With popular bars that are transformed into discos by night, Elounda also has a whole host of wonderful drinking establishments where you can grab a bite to eat.
What is the beach like in Elounda Crete? ›Elounda Beach is one of the prettiest, cleanest beaches in Crete. Elounda is a well protected bay, sitting behind the Kolokytha Peninsula and Spinalonga Island, 10 km from Agios Nikolaos on the north coast of eastern Crete. Protected by Cape Agios Ioannis and Kalydon Island, the waters are tranquil and calm.
Does Elounda have a sandy beach? ›The most popular beach of the area is located east of Elounda, in Skisma area. The beach is adjacent to the harbor and is very well organized by the local municipality. Here you can swim next to small hotels and taverns of Elounda. The beach is sandy and the water is always calm due to the tranquil lagoon of Korfos.
How much is a taxi from Heraklion to Elounda? ›
Taxis at Heraklion airport are charged at a flat rate fee. The transfer from Heraklion airport to Elounda will cost 75€ for up to 4 people.
What is the best time of year to visit Crete? ›Summer is the most popular time to visit Crete. The season starts in June and lasts till the end of September. The average temperatures are at around 27.5 °C to 29.5 °C and there are between 9 to 12 hours of sunshine that the island receives daily.
Does Elounda have a market? ›There is a lot to discover in and around Elounda. Every Friday a market takes place directly at the port of Elounda, where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables as well as clothes and small items for the household.
Is Crete nicer than Santorini? ›Crete has better beaches but they're spread out and it takes a fair bit of effort to see the best beaches. Santorini is small and it's easy to get around to all the popular beaches. Crete has more small traditional (non-touristy) villages. Santorini is more romantic and better suited to a honeymoon.
Is it easy to get around Crete without a car? ›Traveling without a car in Crete is certainly a magnificent option, as you won't have to worry about parking or where to stay. Car rental in Crete will also allow you to get to places that you can't reach by foot, such as the northern coast and the famous Akrotiri Lighthouse.
Do you need a car in Crete? ›It is possible to get around Crete without a car: Bus - There is a network of public transportation - if frequency and travel times, make it difficult to explore. Organized tours - Your other option is to not worry at all about where you are going - book organized tours and enjoy the scenery with a guide.